Chaitra Navratri 2026 is also known as Vasant Navratri during which the nine sacred forms of Maa Durga are worshipped. This sacred festival, which falls in the month of Chaitra is of great importance in Hinduism as it marks the beginning of the Hindu New Year. This time is considered extremely auspicious for devotion and new beginnings. This year, Chaitra Navratri is all set to begin on 19th March 2026.
Below, we have mentioned all the necessary information regarding the start and end date, ghatasthapana date, significance and other significant details for Chaitra Navratri:
Chaitra Navratri 2026: 19 Or 20 March, When Will Navratri Begin?
According to the Panchang, Chaitra Navratri begins this year on 19th March 2026, Thursday. Pratipada Tithi begins at 06:53 AM on 19th March 2026 and ends at 04:52 AM on 20th March 2026.
Chaitra Navratri 2026: Start And End Date
- Chaitra Navratri 2026 Start Date: 19th March 2026, Thursday
- Chaitra Navratri 2026 End Date: 27th March 2026, Friday
Chaitra Navratri 2026: Ghatasthapana
The Ghatasthapana for Chaitra Navratri 2026 will be performed on 19th March 2026. The shubh muhurat for the same is from 06:35 AM - 10:35 AM.
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Chaitra Navratri is also known as Vasant Navratri. This 9-day festival is dedicated to the worship of Navdurga, or the nine incarnations of Maa Aadi Shakti. (Image Source: Gemini AI)
Chaitra Navratri 2026: Significance And Rituals
Chaitra Navratri is a sacred Hindu festival celebrated over nine days with the worship of nine different forms of Goddess Shakti with utmost dedication. The festival is celebrated to usher the arrival of spring and the holy season of reverence. The ninth day of the festival is celebrated as Ram Navami, honouring the birthday of Lord Rama. In preparation for the festival, the house is cleaned to receive Maa Durga, and mantras are chanted along with special pujas performed over the nine days.
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During these nine sacred days, the followers abstain from food and live a strict life. They only consume sattvic food like fruits, milk, yoghurt, and potatoes. Onion, garlic, and non-vegetarian items are completely avoided. The followers completely immerse themselves in spirituality and perform ardhana of Mata Rani. The fasting continues only until the rituals and havan are over on the ninth day. Little Girls are worshipped on the Ashtami and Navami tithis of Navratri, marking the end of the festivities.
(Disclaimer: This content includes advice providing generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for qualified spiritual or astrological opinion. Always consult a specialist for more information before adopting any measures.)